Best Mascara: Volumizing, Lengthening and Waterproof
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Last updated November 2, 2026 with prices from our daily check.
Mascara is one of the most-repurchased makeup products, because it should be replaced every few months. This page lists every mascara in our daily price check, grouped by price, plus safety advice from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). We have not tested these products; we track their prices.
Replace it every three months
The AAD says the lifespan of mascara is three months, citing a study that found staph aureus bacteria in mascara after three months of use. Toss it sooner if it clumps, smells bad or changes texture. That makes mascara a good item to buy on sale.
Use it safely
The AAO advises never sharing eye makeup, avoiding store testers, applying makeup outside the lash line, and removing all eye makeup before sleeping. If you get an eye infection, throw out all your eye makeup.
Waterproof or not
Waterproof formulas resist tears, sweat and humidity but take more effort to remove; use a gentle remover rather than rubbing your eyes.
Mascara under $20 (1)
Budget tubes.
Mascara $20 and up (5)
Prestige mascaras. Since mascara should be replaced every three months, compare cost per month.
Popular mascara on Amazon
Bestsellers on Amazon. We don't show Amazon prices here; click to see today's price. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara
Famous budget volumizing mascara.
Check price on AmazonMaybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara
Lengthening, buildable mascara.
Check price on AmazonBioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
No-rinse makeup remover for sensitive skin.
Check price on AmazonBuying tips
- Write the opening date on the tube so you know when three months are up.
- Do not pump the wand; it pushes air into the tube and dries it out.
- Remove mascara with a gentle remover before bed.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology: When to toss your makeup and sunscreen; American Academy of Ophthalmology: How to use cosmetics safely around your eyes
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